Contents
Teriparatide: Building Stronger Bones for High-Risk Steroid Users
Published: Sep 28, 2024
For some people at very high risk of fractures from steroid use, a medication called teriparatide offers a unique approach. Unlike other osteoporosis drugs that slow bone loss, teriparatide actually stimulates new bone growth.
How It Works
Teriparatide is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone. When given in small, daily doses, it activates bone-building cells called osteoblasts. This leads to increased bone density and improved bone structure. Think of it as giving your skeleton's construction crew a powerful energy boost.
Who Might Benefit?
Doctors typically reserve teriparatide for people at the highest risk of fractures from steroid use. This includes those with very low bone density, a history of fractures, or who haven't responded well to other treatments. It's particularly useful for postmenopausal women and men over 50 who need long-term steroid therapy.
Treatment Details
Teriparatide is given as a daily injection under the skin, usually for up to two years. After treatment, most people switch to a bisphosphonate to maintain the gains in bone density. While effective, teriparatide is more expensive than other options and requires daily injections, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common ones include nausea, dizziness, and leg cramps.
It's usually not recommended due to a potential increased risk of bone cancer.
Significant improvements in bone density are often seen within 6-12 months.
A Powerful Option
For those at highest risk, teriparatide offers a unique way to rebuild bone and reduce fracture risk.
References
- Saag KG, et al. Teriparatide or alendronate in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. N Engl J Med 2007; 357:2028.
- Langdahl BL, et al. Teriparatide versus alendronate for treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: an analysis by gender and menopausal status. Osteoporos Int 2009; 20:2095.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?